Civil servant to be appointed as sports commissioner, says Kevin Yeung

The Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Kevin Yeung Yun-hung, said on Friday that a civil servant will be appointed as the city’s next sports commissioner to fill the “urgent” role.

His comments came after former windsurfer Sam Wong Tak-sum resigned as the city's sports commissioner after taking office for just slightly over a year. Wong was appointed commissioner for sports on August 22 last year with a three-year term.

Read more: Commissioner for sports Wong steps down in surprise move

Yeung told reporters today that discussions are underway with the Civil Service Bureau to appoint a suitable civil servant to take on the role, with future developments on the matter depending on the actual circumstances.

He said authorities will soon have to formulate policies and measures related to sports, including reviewing athlete subsidies, reforming sports associations, and coordinating the opening of the Kai Tak Sports Park.

There is a need for individuals familiar with public policy and government operations to fill the role, he added.

Meanwhile, commenting on New World Development Company Limited’s potential sale of its entire stake in Kai Tak Sports Park Limited to Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited, the sports chief said the SAR government has received relevant applications and will consider in accordance with the current contract terms.

He also expressed confidence that the plans for the sports park could be implemented as scheduled without affecting its opening.